Strict guidelines are being put in place to help safeguard the historic Tyneside skyline.

Newcastle City Council said the move will work to prevent obtrusive skyscrapers being built.

The guidelines include a set of criteria, which must be met by developers when planning new buildings for the city centre. They must not adversely impact on historical sites or add to environmental pollution.

The new guidelines define a tall building being "a structure that breaks the skyline or which is significantly taller than its surrounding built fabric".

Mike Cookson, executive member for regeneration, planning and transport at Newcastle City Council, said: "We need to look at the impact a building has in the location it is proposed.

"We have carefully considered elements which are felt to be essential in assessing the suitability of tall buildings for Newcastle, and are building on the best practice of other core cities, which are putting together similar guidance. We now need wider consultation to ensure the best possible guidance is produced."